Imagine a place where mountains meet the sea, ancient forests hide medieval ruins, waterfalls tumble through rugged cliffs, and cozy villages serve the best tea and scones you've ever had. That place exists ? it's called Wicklow, Ireland?s true Garden of Eden.
Located just south of Dublin, County Wicklow is one of the most captivating destinations for travelers seeking nature, history, and authentic Irish experiences. In this complete guide, you?ll find everything you need to plan your visit: what to see, when to go, how to get there, curated itineraries, fun facts, local tips, and more.
? Why Is Wicklow Called ?The Garden of Ireland??
The nickname was coined in the 19th century by poets and travelers enchanted by the region?s lush and varied landscapes. Wicklow offers:
- Rolling heather-covered mountains;
- Glacial lakes nestled in peaceful valleys;
- Ancient forests with cinematic trails;
- Formal and wild gardens blooming year-round;
- A dramatic coastline with beaches and cliffs.
The scenery is so iconic that Wicklow has served as a filming location for ?Braveheart,? ?Vikings,? ?P.S. I Love You,? ?The Tudors,? and many others.
?? Top Things to See and Do in Wicklow
1. Glendalough
The spiritual heart of Wicklow. Glendalough is home to a 6th-century monastic settlement founded by Saint Kevin. Walking among the ruins is like stepping back in time. Don?t miss the trails around the two lakes (Lower and Upper Lake) and the Glenealo Valley.
Insider Tip: The Spinc Trail offers some of the best panoramic views in Ireland.
2. Powerscourt Estate & Gardens
Ranked among the most beautiful gardens in the world by National Geographic. The estate includes Italian and Japanese gardens, lily ponds, swan-filled lakes, and a stately mansion. Just a short drive away is the Powerscourt Waterfall ? the tallest in Ireland at 121 meters.
Fun Fact: The family who built Powerscourt still resides on the estate today.
3. Wicklow Mountains National Park
With over 20,000 hectares of protected nature, it?s a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and photographers. Highlights include:
- Sally Gap ? a scenic drive through the uplands;
- Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) ? a dark lake shaped like a pint of beer;
- Glenmacnass Waterfall ? a stunning roadside cascade.
4. Wicklow Gaol
This 18th-century jail is now an immersive museum offering guided tours, interactive exhibits, and spine-tingling ghost stories. A must for history buffs and fans of the macabre.
5. Avoca Valley & Meeting of the Waters
Where the Avonmore and Avonbeg rivers unite to form the River Avoca ? a spot immortalized in Irish poetry. The charming village of Avoca is also home to Avoca Handweavers, a café and shop filled with locally made crafts and treats.
? Best Time to Visit Wicklow
- Spring (Mar?May): Wildflowers bloom, mild weather, fewer tourists.
- Summer (Jun?Aug): Long days, perfect for hiking and garden visits.
- Autumn (Sep?Nov): Golden foliage and magical light.
- Winter (Dec?Feb): Quiet atmosphere, cozy villages, fewer crowds.
? How to Get There
- By car: The best option for freedom and scenic stops. Take the M11 to Bray or Wicklow Town, then follow the R755 to Glendalough.
- Public transport: Trains to Bray, Greystones or Wicklow Town. Local buses connect to nearby attractions.
- Day tours: Companies like Paddywagon, Wild Rover and Irish Day Tours offer guided excursions from Dublin.
? Where to Eat and Drink
- The Wicklow Heather (Laragh): Cozy Irish cuisine and wine selection.
- Avoca Café (multiple locations): Great for soups, salads, cakes, and shopping.
- Byrne & Woods (Roundwood): Upscale country dining with a rustic vibe.
? Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Powerscourt Gardens + Waterfall
- Lunch: Avoca Café
- Afternoon: Wicklow Mountains scenic drive + Lough Tay
- Dinner: Roundwood village
Day 2
- Morning: Glendalough + Spinc Trail
- Lunch: The Wicklow Heather
- Afternoon: Wicklow Gaol + Meeting of the Waters
- Return to Dublin
? Golden Travel Tips
- Wear waterproof hiking shoes ? the ground can get muddy.
- Pack snacks and water if hiking.
- Be prepared for fast-changing weather.
- Download offline maps if you plan to go deep into the hills.
? Coming Soon on the Blog
- Top 5 hidden hiking trails in Wicklow
- Best forest cafés and nature brunch spots
- Mythical stories from Glendalough?s monks
- Couple & family-friendly itineraries
? Start Your 360° Journey Now
Experience Wicklow like never before. Step into ancient ruins, hidden trails, and breathtaking views ? all in immersive 360°.
Pick a destination below and explore:
? Glendalough 360° Tour
? Black Rock Castle
? Devil?s Glen Nature Walk
? Magheramore Beach
? Guiness Lake
[Browse All Virtual Tours]
? Discover the Stories Behind the Places**
Our blog brings Wicklow?s magic to life. Explore history, legends, local secrets, and travel tips to plan your perfect adventure.
Read our featured articles:
? Devil?s Glen, Wicklow: Trail Guide, History, Curiosities and an Immersive Sensory Experience
? Glendalough: Where Time Whispers Between Lakes and Ruins
? Guinness Lake (Lough Tay): The Black Jewel of the Wicklow Mountains
? Wicklow: The Garden of Ireland ? Discover the Charm of the Region
?? Download Your Free Guide: 3-Day Itinerary in Wicklow
Want to explore even more? Get our FREE 3-Day Itinerary for Wicklow, including hidden trails, castles, beaches and scenic towns ? with interactive maps and a printable checklist.
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